Director Of The Maine Office Of Child And Family Services (Ocfs)

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking candidates for the position of theDirector of the Maine Officeof Child and Family Services (OCFS). OCFS oversees the State’s (1) child welfare system, (2) early care and education programs (including child care); and (3) children’s behavioral health services. OCFS also includes Children’s Licensing and Investigation Services, the Violence Prevention Program, and the Family First Prevention Services Act program, among others. It has nearly 900 positions statewide in the State Capitol of Augusta and eight regional offices. 

In terms of programmatic areas, first, the Director works with the Associate Director for Child Welfare Services to provide leadership and oversight of Maine’s child welfare system. This involves improving: the recently launched Foundations trainings and information technology system called Katahdin; practices and policies with input from staff, experts, and people who interact with child protective services; recruitment, retention, and job satisfaction for caseworkers and supervisors; and outcomes for Maine children and families. In addition to supporting the Associate Director, the Director supports engagement with the court system, the education system, the public safety system, and different oversight and advisory committees that are part of the larger child welfare ecosystem. The Director also will continue to focus on prevention through the implementation of the federal Family First Prevention Services Act and the State Child Safety and Family Wellbeing Plan.

Second, the Director works with the Associate Director for Early Care and Education to manage the State of Maine’s role in child care licensing, quality improvements, access, and educational programming. This includes promoting training and salary supplements for child care workers, expanding the number and capacity of Child care providers, implementing recent legislation that expands child care subsidy, and continuing efforts to promote quality education in child care settings. OCFS also manages a range of programs such as Head Start and the Preschool Development Grant that promote early childhood education.

Third, the Director works with the Associate Director of Children’s Behavioral Health Services to implement a comprehensive plan to address capacity gaps, affordability issues, and increase evidence-based practices in Maine’s children’s behavioral health system. OCFS works closely with the Department’s Office of Behavioral Health and Office of MaineCare Services in implementation of this plan.

The Department seeks a Director who can strengthen support for the dedicated staff at OCFS, who understands the complexity of the child welfare, child care, and children’s behavioral health systems, and who is committed to the hard work of making needed improvements. The Director plays a key role in the Children’s Cabinet and has an opportunity to develop and implement innovative programs given strong support in Maine for children’s policy. The Director presents to the Legislature regularly; represents the Department on relevant commissions and in national organizations; and participates in public events.

Candidates must have an advanced degree, experience in or with the child welfare system, and strong management skills. Candidates should have at a minimum familiarity and preferably expertise in the programs in OCFS. Preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated an inclusive leadership style and skill in navigating complex systems. Diversity is welcome. 

The Director reports to the Commissioner of the Department of Health and Human Services. The position is appointed with a salary based on experience. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Desirea Murray: Desirea.Murray@Maine.gov.

There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics. 

If you’re looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we’d love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

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